If you crave a vibrant, hands-on meal that brings a little sunshine to your table, you absolutely have to try Greek Chicken Gyros. Juicy, boldly seasoned grilled chicken gets wrapped in warm, pillowy pita alongside crisp veggies and tangy tzatziki — every bite is bright, zesty, and wonderfully satisfying. Whether you’re throwing a fun family dinner or just want to treat yourself to Mediterranean flavors at home, these homemade gyros deliver that perfect balance of comforting street food and fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Greek Chicken Gyros is how simple and fresh the ingredients are. Each component has a starring role, bringing color, juiciness, crunch, or creaminess to the finished wrap.
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Opt for thighs for maximum juiciness or use breasts for a lighter bite; both soak up the marinade beautifully.
- Olive Oil: This helps keep the chicken moist while adding a subtle richness — don’t skimp on quality olive oil here!
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon brings a bright acidity that wakes up all the flavors and helps tenderize the meat.
- Garlic: Essential for that robust, aromatic kick everyone expects from Greek classics.
- Oregano: Dried oregano gives that signature herbal warmth that’s so uniquely Greek.
- Cumin: This earthy spice adds depth and a gentle heat to the marinade.
- Paprika: A sprinkle provides color and a hint of smokiness without overpowering the dish.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Balances everything and helps the other spices sing.
- Pita Breads: Soft, lightly warmed pita wraps up the juicy chicken and toppings like a cozy blanket.
- Tzatziki Sauce: Cool, creamy, and garlicky, this Greek yogurt sauce ties everything together — use homemade or pick up your favorite from the store.
- Chopped Tomatoes: Juicy, sweet tomatoes add a pop of freshness and color to your gyro.
- Red Onion: Sliced thin, they bring a bit of bite and bright crunch.
- Lettuce or Cucumber: Shredded lettuce or crisp cucumber slices offer refreshing crunch and extra greens.
- Feta Cheese (Optional): A sprinkle of feta adds a tangy, salty burst that takes your Greek Chicken Gyros truly over the top.
How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros
Step 1: Mix Up the Marinade
Start by gathering your olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a bowl or a zip-top bag, whisk everything together until well combined. This marinade is where the magic happens — the bright lemon and deep spices infuse the chicken, laying the groundwork for those irresistible gyros flavors.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add your chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade and toss well to make sure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl, or seal the bag, and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, letting it hang out for up to 12 hours will give you the deepest flavor and the juiciest chicken ever. Short on time? Even a half-hour makes a big difference!
Step 3: Grill or Cook the Chicken
When you’re ready, preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lay the marinated chicken on the hot surface, and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Look for golden, slightly charred edges — that’s where all the flavor concentrates. Once cooked through, set the chicken aside to rest while you get your toppings ready.
Step 4: Slice and Prep the Fixings
Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to keep it juicy, then slice it into strips. While it rests, warm up your pita breads (a quick turn on a dry pan or 10 seconds in the microwave does the trick). Chop your tomatoes, thinly slice your red onion, and get your lettuce or cucumber ready. If you’re a feta fan, crumble some now so it’s good to go.
Step 5: Assemble Your Greek Chicken Gyros
Spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki over each warm pita. Top with juicy sliced chicken, then pile on the tomatoes, red onion, lettuce or cucumber, and finish with a sprinkle of feta if you’re feeling fancy. Wrap, fold, and dive in — every bite is bursting with fresh, bold Greek flavors!
How to Serve Greek Chicken Gyros
Garnishes
Your Greek Chicken Gyros will shine with the right finishing touches. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or dill, a squeeze of extra lemon, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can take each gyro up a notch, adding even more fragrance and color.
Side Dishes
Complete your Mediterranean feast with classic sides like crispy oven-roasted potatoes, Greek salad with juicy olives and feta, or lightly charred vegetables. You can never go wrong with a big bowl of chips or a tangy cucumber tomato salad to keep things light and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with your presentation! Try serving a make-your-own Greek Chicken Gyros board with all the fillings in colorful bowls — it’s perfect for parties or family dinners. Or, swap pita for lettuce leaves for a low-carb, extra-crunchy twist, or serve open-faced on a platter for a stunning, fork-and-knife meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover chicken, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store the chopped veggies and tzatziki separately, so everything stays fresh for another round of Greek Chicken Gyros or a quick salad bowl lunch.
Freezing
The cooked chicken freezes beautifully! Let it cool, then slice and freeze in an airtight bag for up to two months. When you’re ready for your Greek Chicken Gyros fix, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and you’re halfway to a speedy, homemade Mediterranean meal.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the chicken strips gently in a covered skillet over low heat, with just a splash of water or olive oil to keep things juicy. Avoid microwaving for too long, as the chicken can dry out. Warm your pitas and you’re all set for fresh-tasting homemade gyros anytime!
FAQs
Can I make Greek Chicken Gyros with another protein?
Absolutely! While chicken is classic, you can swap in grilled shrimp, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian spin. The same delicious marinade works well for any of these options, so feel free to make the recipe your own.
What’s the best way to get that authentic charred flavor?
Grilling over an outdoor flame will give you the most authentic char, but a well-heated stovetop skillet or grill pan works wonders. Make sure your chicken is patted dry before cooking for the best golden-brown crust.
Do I have to marinate the chicken overnight?
Overnight marination definitely boosts the flavor and tenderness, but even 30 minutes works! If you’re short on time, the marinade will still impart loads of Mediterranean goodness to your Greek Chicken Gyros.
Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Yes, store-bought tzatziki is a fantastic shortcut and keeps prep speedy. If you want to go homemade, just stir together Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and a little dill — it’s easier than you think!
How do I keep the pita bread soft and pliable?
Gently warm the pita just before serving, either wrapped in foil in a low oven, or for a few seconds in the microwave. This helps the bread remain soft, making it perfect for wrapping around all that delicious gyro goodness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so irresistible about Greek Chicken Gyros, from the combination of bold spices to that fresh, creamy tzatziki. I hope you’re as excited as I am to bring a bit of Mediterranean magic to your table. Dive in, get your hands just a little messy, and enjoy every flavor-packed bite — you’re in for a treat!
Print
Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 4–6 gyros
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the taste of Greece with these flavorful homemade Greek Chicken Gyros. Tender marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and tangy tzatziki sauce all wrapped up in warm pita bread – a perfect meal for any day!
Ingredients
Marinated Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 4–6 pita breads
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cucumber slices
- crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 12 hours in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- Assemble the Gyros: Warm the pita breads and spread each with a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce. Top with sliced chicken, tomatoes, red onion, lettuce or cucumber, and feta if using. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier gyros, or substitute with grilled shrimp or lamb.
- Tzatziki can be homemade or store-bought.
- For a low-carb option, serve in lettuce wraps or bowls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 gyro
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
